When space is limited, furniture shopping can be a real hassle. But there are plenty of ways to find furnishings that work harder and look brighter, says Wayfair (opens in new tab) Resident Style Advisor Nadia McCowan Hill. The key is to avoid furniture that looks bulky and unwieldy, select pieces that occupy a small footprint, and make the most of vertical space. Get the Best information about Furniture for Small Spaces.
The Right Height
Whether your room has high ceilings or is cozy, taking advantage of overhead space can create the illusion of spaciousness. For example, hanging a statement mirror or wall art in an unexpected spot can open up the floor plan. Similarly, shelving or cabinets on an interior wall can free up floor space underneath. If your room doesn’t have high ceilings, look for a taller sofa or loveseat that will help to draw the eye upward and make the top seem higher.
Go Round, Not Square
Keeping scale in mind is essential when furnishing a small space, advises Steiner and Krueger. Oversized furniture will crowd a room and have a choppy, cluttered look. On the other hand, a dainty table runs the risk of looking twee or too diminutive. A good rule of thumb is that it’s too big if your living room furniture doesn’t fit in the doorway. Instead, consider moving it to another room, selling it at a local buy-and-sell service, and investing in a new piece that fits your space.
Lighten Up
While many tricks can make a room feel more prominent, the color of the furnishings plays a significant role. Dark colors can feel cramped and close, while lighter shades are more expansive. Also, remember that darker upholstery tends to absorb more light and appear darker against a more golden background. Finally, choose a fabric with a hint of pattern to keep the look from feeling stark to add visual interest and warmth.
Multifunctional Furniture
If floor space is at a premium, choose furnishings that can do double–or even triple–duty in a smaller room. An ottoman, for instance, can be a coffee table, footstool, and storage solution all in one. Then, top it with a tray to easily access books and other items.
Lastly, avoid furniture that blocks your view of the space. Choose chairs and sofas with slender arms, and for tables, look for styles that have the legs exposed rather than enclosing them. This allows more light to pass through the piece, instantly opening a room. Also, don’t block the light flow with bulky draperies, which only weigh a room down.
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